Special Speyside Whiskies

Scotland has long been known for its rich traditions in scotch with no other region more widely identified with whisky wizardry than Speyside. As home to more than half the country’s distilleries including the Glenlivet and Glenfiddich, this winter there are many amazing Speyside whiskies to choose from. Here are just some of the highlights that deserve a mention.

1. The Macallan Rare Cask

The Macallan uses a unique blend of Spanish and American oak to forge the sherry casks in which its whisky matures. This brings the flavour that dazzle and delight it is known for. Delicious undertones of dried fruit and delectable caramel and cocoa produce the brand’s distinctive profile. The Rare Cask sells for $300 after it was first released in 2014.

2. The Glenrothes Peated Cask Reserve

This non-age statement single malt is another addition to the Glenrothes’ Reserve Collection. Aged in sherry and bourbon casks, the Glenrothes Peated Cask Reserve (priced at $55) is light in color and body, with subtle citrus notes and lick of vanilla. It has a hint of smokiness but not so much that you forget you’re enjoying a Speyside malt.

3. Glenfarclas 17-Year-Old

The family owned and operated brand has a new palatable blend on offer – the Glenfarclas 17 (priced at $94), which exhibits a strong sherry influence from the first sip—raisins, cinnamon, and nutmeg are front and center nuances, with subtler citrus and sawdust notes. It is perfectly balanced between the concentrated flavors of older barrelings and the smoothness of younger whiskies.